Reflection
Nazareth College
What the Commonwealth Games Can Teach Us About Our Faith?
We are in it to do our personal best
As Christians, we can all agree that we are in this thing to do our personal best. We will suffer our losses, be defeated and exhausted from time to time, but we will never stop battling for that goal. Gratefully, the victory is already won for us, we simply must remain faithful. As Paul says: Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12)
To be challenged
Sports are challenging, the outcomes are not always fair, and the decisions that impact us can seem ludicrous. Life is the same. In life we are given a new chance every day and in sports, every season, every game, and every shift is a chance to rise to the occasion and accomplish greatness for something bigger than ourselves.
I will not be afraid of many thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. (Psalm 3:6)
To learn new skills and trust the Lord where are focus should be
Throughout life, we are afforded opportunities to gain new skills in a myriad of subjects, but also in life we are forced to learn new skills for survival, happiness, and discipline. Sports can teach us so much: we don’t have to learn everything about every sport, but we can become passionate and talented at a particular sport. In the Church, we seek our vocations with the same perspective. To do this we must trust in the Lord.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Mary MacKillop had great trust in God
August 8 is the feast day of Mary MacKillop – one of Nazareth College’s 6 House patrons. Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop was made Australia’s first saint in 2010, and she was an outstanding religious woman of the 19th Century. Throughout her life she endured many struggles, however, she had great faith and trust in God.
St Mary of the Cross, faced difficult times with a heart filled with trust, always believing in the watchful presence of God. Like her, may we be for others, examples of confident hope and trust.
Mr Peter Stewart
Director of Faith and Mission